The Request for Proposal (RFP) aims to create a solution that allows players to self-exclude from all Ontario-regulated online gambling operators through a single registration process. iGaming Ontario, the regulatory body for online gambling in the province, plans to launch the Responsible Gambling Program (RGP) in early 2024. The winning bid will be responsible for developing and implementing a system that seamlessly integrates with all operator systems. This system should facilitate players’ self-exclusion registration, renewal, and reinstatement.
The key features of the system should prioritize the player’s experience, making it user-friendly and easy to navigate for self-exclusion purposes. iGaming Ontario emphasizes the importance of delivering the solution in a non-stigmatizing and non-judgmental manner, offering support to users. Transparency for both players and operators is crucial, along with ensuring the security of all users. The system should also be feasible for licensees to implement alongside their own offerings.
“We are seeking interest from responsive and nimble companies that can develop modern, innovative, and secure SaaS solutions. These solutions should be high-profile, public-facing, and critically important in building and maintaining trust among various stakeholders,” said iGaming Ontario. “The successful bidder will collaborate with us on a multi-year program to develop top-notch experiences by leveraging cutting-edge technology.”
The decision to launch the RFP comes after recent figures revealed that online gambling revenue in Ontario more than doubled year-on-year in Q2, reaching CA$540 million. Of that sum, CA$407 million came from online casinos, CA$118 million from sports betting, and CA$16 million from poker. These figures encompass all cash wagers, rake fees, tournament fees, and other fees, minus player winnings.
In terms of player spending, total igaming wagers in Q2 skyrocketed by 132% to CA$14.20 billion. Consumers placed CA$11.90 billion in bets on internet casino games, CA$1.90 billion on sports betting, and CA$397 million on online poker. Promotional wagers, such as bonuses and free bets, are not included in these figures.
PointsBet Canada recently faced a fine of CA$150,000 from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) for violating responsible gambling rules. This included the failure to assist a customer who was potentially experiencing gambling harm. The customer incurred losses exceeding CA$500,000 in less than three months. While PointsBet Canada’s systems flagged the user as potentially high-risk on multiple occasions, no interventions were provided during that period. Additionally, PointsBet Canada was penalized for not enforcing a 24-hour cooling-off period when players cancelled their per-day deposit limit, a requirement under Ontario licenses.
In September, InnovateChange conducted an analysis of the Ontario market and its progress in the first year of regulation. Ontario is currently the only Canadian province with a regulated online gambling market, which went live in April 2022. Online gaming is prohibited in other provinces, except for the provincial lottery corporations, which hold a de facto monopoly. It is important to note that NorthStar’s new dotcom venture is not regulated by Canadian authorities except in Ontario.
